1997-2001 Jeep Cherokee

Rear View - Want to buy used? Our weekly look at one model.

July 29, 2007|By Steven Cole Smith, Automotive Editor

In a nutshell: Though the Jeep Cherokee has been around since 1984, we chose to start this with the 1997 model, the date of the Cherokee's last face-lift and update, though it still looks a lot like that 1984. Little changed from 1997 until it died in 2001. Base engine in 1997 was a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, but it later disappeared. Most have the 4.0-liter inline six-cylinder, rated at 190 horsepower.

The good: Cheap, basic SUV with a durable powertrain (the 4.0-liter and automatic transmission). The four-wheel-drive model is a good off-roader.

The bad: Rough, noisy ride. The 4.0-liter engine is thirsty and loud. Can seat five, but rear seats are tight, front seats not that comfortable.

The price: All over the board. New, base 1997 models were about $18,000, ranging to $27,000 loaded. Prices rose slightly through 2001. Now, nice four-wheel-drive 2001 models top out at about $10,500, with basic but clean high-mileage 1997s available for about $3,200.